Craft Your Own Gin Experience for Two in Stornoway

This hands-on gin-making experience in Stornoway promises an engaging journey into the art of distillation, perfect for enthusiasts and curious travelers alike. Over three hours, you’ll work shoulder-to-shoulder with a professional distiller, designing a personalized gin recipe from over 50 botanicals, then distilling your creation on traditional mini copper stills.

What makes this tour stand out is its personalized approach—not just a tasting or a demonstration, but a chance to craft a unique bottle of gin that you’ll take home. It’s ideal for couples or friends seeking a memorable, interactive activity that combines learning with fun.

One possible consideration is the cost, which might seem steep at around $178 for just two people. But when you factor in the experience of designing, distilling, and leaving with a full-size bottle, plus the expert guidance, it offers good value for those seeking a premium, authentic activity.

This experience suits gin lovers, adventurers interested in spirits, or anyone wanting a unique souvenir from their trip. If you’re looking for something interactive and memorable in Scotland, this is a worthwhile choice.

Key Points

• Personalized Crafting: Create a gin tailored to your taste preferences from over 50 botanicals.
• Expert Guidance: Led by a professional distiller, ensuring quality instructions and insights.
• Full-Size Bottle: Take home a 70cl bottle of your own crafted gin—an authentic souvenir.
• Tasting & Learning: Includes a full gin tasting, with insights into key botanicals and gin development.
• Convenient & Intimate: Small group experience (max 6 travelers) for a more personalized session.
• Accessible Location: Central in Stornoway, easy to find and near public transport.

An In-Depth Look at the Craft Your Own Gin Experience

Booking and Arrival

Booking this experience through Viator is straightforward, with immediate confirmation unless you book within a day—then, it’s subject to availability. The meeting point is Stornoway Distillers Co., 3 Cromwell St, a centrally located venue that’s easy to find, even if you’re unfamiliar with the area. The start time is 12:30 pm, making it a perfect midday activity that allows for a relaxed exploration of the rest of Stornoway afterward.

The Welcome & Tasting

Your 3-hour session kicks off with a warm welcome, featuring a Landfall G&T—a refreshing start that sets the tone for the afternoon. You’ll also participate in a full gin tasting, exploring the botanicals that contribute to Landfall Gin, which has earned multiple awards. Reviewers have praised how “very informative, organised but easy going” the experience is, with Gez, the guide, making everything accessible and engaging.

Designing Your Gin

The heart of the experience lies in creating your own flavor profile. You’ll learn how to select botanicals, weigh them, and develop a recipe. The distiller guides you through the process, ensuring each step is clear and enjoyable. With over 50 botanicals to choose from, you can experiment with classic juniper, citrus peels, or more exotic options like spice or floral elements.

A reviewer mentioned how “Gez introduced himself and made the process very approachable,” highlighting the welcoming atmosphere. This hands-on part is especially appealing if you like to understand the ‘why’ behind flavors, rather than just tasting.

Distillation & Bottling

Once your recipe is finalized, you’ll move on to distilling your gin on a mini traditional copper still. The process involves weighing your botanicals and monitoring the distillation, which adds an element of hands-on craftsmanship. The guide ensures you understand each step, making the entire process both educational and fun.

After distillation, you’ll hand label and finish your full 70cl bottle. This personal touch makes the bottle a unique souvenir and a great story to tell.

Optional Drivers & Non-Alcoholic Experience

For those who prefer not to indulge in the tasting, a driver option is available, replacing alcohol measures with soft drinks and mini bottles of Landfall Gin and tonic to take home. Be sure to advise the team 24 hours ahead if you want this option, ensuring a smooth experience.

Group Size & Atmosphere

With a maximum of 6 travelers, the experience remains intimate, allowing for personalized attention and easy interaction. The small-group setting means you’re not just a number—you get a more tailored, relaxed environment.

Price & Value

At $178.13, this experience is priced for a premium activity, but considering the full-sized bottle of handcrafted gin, the guided instruction, tastings, and the unique opportunity to craft your own spirit, many will find it well worth it. This is especially true if you’re a gin enthusiast or celebrating a special occasion.

What Reviewers Say

While only one review is available, it’s glowing: “We enjoyed Gin School today with Gez, which was very informative, organised but easy going.” The reviewer appreciated how straightforward booking was and how Gez’s approachable manner made the process enjoyable. This suggests the atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, suitable for those new to gin-making.

Who Is This Experience Best For?

This tour is perfect if you want to try your hand at distilling, learn about botanicals, or create a personalized gift. It’s well-suited for couples, friends, or small groups who enjoy interactive, hands-on activities. It also appeals to those seeking a high-quality, authentic Scottish experience that combines education with fun.

However, it might be less suitable for travelers on a tight schedule or those who prefer passive activities. The cost could also be a consideration for budget travelers, but it reflects the craftsmanship and personalized guidance involved.

Practical Tips for the Best Experience

• Book in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons.
• If you’re driving, remember to advise the team 24 hours ahead for the soft drink option.
• Arrive a few minutes early to settle in and start on time.
• Consider bringing a small notepad to jot down flavor ideas.
• Wear comfortable clothes—you’ll be handling botanicals and operating stills.
• Don’t forget your ID if you look under 25; proof of age may be required.
• After your session, explore Stornoway—this experience pairs well with a relaxed afternoon in town.

FAQ

Can I book this experience for just myself?
Yes, the experience is priced per group, up to 1 person, so you can book solo. It’s perfect if you’re a solo traveler wanting a unique activity.

What is included in the price?
You’ll get a full gin tasting, guided recipe creation, distillation on a mini copper still, and a 70cl bottle of your own gin to take home. The driver option replaces alcohol tasting with soft drinks and mini bottles of gin and tonic.

Is it suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The guide and the approachable atmosphere make it suitable for all levels, including those new to gin or distilling.

How long does the experience last?
Approximately three hours, providing enough time to learn, craft, and enjoy without feeling rushed.

Can I customize my gin?
Yes, you will choose your botanicals and develop a flavor profile with guidance, resulting in a personalized gin.

Is there a group limit?
Yes, a maximum of 6 travelers, ensuring a more intimate and engaging experience.

What if I want to be a driver?
You must advise the team 24 hours in advance. The driver option includes non-alcoholic drinks and mini bottles to take home instead of tasting alcohol.

Can I bring children?
No, this experience is only for adults over 18. You may be asked for ID if you look under 25.

What is the cancellation policy?
The experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked, so plan accordingly.

Final Thoughts

This craft your own gin experience in Stornoway offers an engaging blend of learning, creativity, and hands-on fun. It’s a rare chance to develop a personal recipe with expert guidance, then distill and take home your own bottle. The small group size and professional environment ensure you’ll leave with not just a custom gin but also new knowledge about Scottish spirits.

Ideal for couples celebrating a special occasion, friends seeking a memorable activity, or gin lovers wanting to deepen their appreciation for the craft, this tour delivers authenticity and enjoyment in equal measure. While the price might be on the higher side, the quality, personalized approach, and the tangible souvenir make it a worthwhile investment for those who prize unique experiences.

Whether you’re a seasoned gin aficionado or simply curious, this tour promises a fun, educational, and delicious day in Stornoway that you’ll remember long after the bottle is empty.